CNCS provides this state by state guide for informational purposes only and makes reasonable efforts to ensure the quality of the information. You are responsible for determining the suitability of the information and your use of the information in this guide, and for compliance with NSCHC requirements (45 CFR 2540.200 - .207). CNCS makes no express or implied warranty, no representation, nor assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness, timeliness, or completeness of any information in, or available through, this guide. The information in this guide is presented in good faith and believed to be correct. You assume the risk of relying on the information contained in this guide. Links to non-CNCS websites are provided for informational purposes only.
CNCS is not responsible for the content of non-CNCS websites. CNCS neither endorses the information, content, presentation, or accuracy nor makes any express or implied warranty regarding external websites or any commercial product or service.
If you identify information that is outdated, please notify us at CHC@cns.gov.
Contact Information
State Checks
General Information on State Checks:
- While two options for types of state checks are listed below, name-based and fingerprint-based, only one type of state check is required. CNCS does not recommend one of these checks over the other. Either the name-based state check or the fingerprint-based state check is acceptable.
- Please note that to be in compliance with CNCS requirements, recipients may have to conduct checks in up to two states: the state of service/work check on individuals in covered positions, as well as a state of residence check (i.e. if the state of residence is different from the state of service/work at the time of application).
Name-Based State Checks
How long does it take to obtain results? When requesting a Certificate of Good Standing online, results are emailed to you. The result will be received quickly if no record is found, but may take longer to receive if the individual has a record.
Additional notes: The name-based state check can be requested by mail, fax, or via Internet. The person’s name, alias, date of birth, social security number, sex, place of birth, address, and citizenship are required.
Fingerprint-Based State Checks
Approved Alternative Repositories
None at this time.
FBI Checks
CNCS FBI Channeler: Organizations that cannot successfully use the state repository for FBI checks may use CNCS’s FBI-approved Channeler, Fieldprint, for FBI checks.
NSOPW (National Sex Offender Public Website) Check
Please note that a check of a single state’s sex offender registry alone is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the nationwide NSOPW check requirement. The information provided in the State Sex Offender Registry Information section is for reference purposes only in the event that a single state sex offender registry check is necessary to supplement an incomplete nationwide NSOPW check.
State Sex Offender Registry Information
Individuals Requesting Criminal History Records (versus Organizations)
Revised as of 2/24/2017